The signature biennial fundraiser was participated by close to 20 diplomatic missions, 40 local and international enterprises and several schools

Singapore, 15 March 2015 – The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) held its signature biennial fundraiser today at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. Graced by President Dr Tony Tan Yam Keng, Patron of the SRC, the event aims to raise S$250,000 which will go towards the Society’s local humanitarian aid. This year, the bazaar showcased close to 80 stalls of international delicacies and crafts, games and performances put together by diplomatic missions, civic groups, schools and local and international enterprises (full list of participants available in Annex A).

Mr Tee Tua Ba, Chairman of the SRC, said : “This year’s international bazaar brings together about 20 diplomatic missions, 40 local and international enterprises, several schools and many dedicated individuals, working in solidarity to help improve the lives of the most vulnerable in our community. We are grateful for their unwavering support and dedication to aiding our local humanitarian services.”

The day’s programme featured performances by various embassies and international societies including dances by the Ukrainian and Thai Embassy, a fashion show by the Brazilian embassy and an capella performance by the Philippines Embassy. Wiltay, US-based homegrown performer also wowed the crowds with his music at the full day bazaar. ‘Rich kid of Singapore’, Kane Lim was a popular draw at the event where he sold off many of his designer goods.

Funds were raised through the sale of charity tickets and the amount collected will go towards some of SRC’s local services, including:

• The Red Cross Home for the Disabled which provides residential, respite and day care services for adults and children with multiple disabilities;
• FoodAid which provides monthly nutritious food to those in need such as skipped-generation families (grandparent-headed households), single-parent families and the working poor;
• TransportAid which ferries elderly or disabled from low income families to and from medical treatments, rehabilitation and day care centres;
• Community FirstAid at national and community events; and
• CLARE – the recently launched Community Led Action for REsilience, which empowers volunteers to provide first response and aid, elder care, befriending, and community service to the elderly in Tampines.

Red Cross International Bazaar started in 1994 and it has been growing in scale over the years. Last held in Singapore in 2012, The Red Cross International Bazaar is a traditional Red Cross event also organised by other Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world.

Mrs Genevieve Peggy Jeffs, Chairperson of this year’s International Bazaar Organising Committee, said: “We are grateful to the sponsors, participants and volunteers who have contributed so much of their time, effort and resources to this international bazaar. Their generous support has led to yet another successful event and furthering SRC’s aid in the community.”